So This is A Cool Outcome Of Piano Games We Never Considered

When Andrea and I launched PianoGameClub in November we knew, without a doubt, students would love the games. We also knew, without a doubt, that the games would have a huge impact on the way piano students learn.

But, as it turns out, the PianoGameClub games are serving another cool purpose that we never really considered…

Relationship building

I mean, it seems so obvious now, but when we first launched we were all about the educational benefits! Now, as we talk with teachers, analyze feedback, and experiment ourselves, we’re discovering that the power of games to solidify a positive student-teacher relationship seems to be as valued as the educational outcomes.

Which makes perfect sense. In a funny sort of way, getting off the bench and playing piano games with students makes a teacher seem “more human” 🙂

It’s the difference between the dad or mom who watches a game of pick-up baseball from the bleachers, and the dad or mom who is diving in the dirt trying to grab a line drive. Both are useful, but one is building a stronger relationship and deeper bonds.

Something that only play can achieve.

So, if you’ve been thinking about adding piano games to your repertoire of teaching awesomeness, click on the image below to see sample pages from 4 games our members have received in past months. If you like what you see join in on the fun and become a PianoGameClub member.

7 Responses to So This is A Cool Outcome Of Piano Games We Never Considered

You are so right on!! Sometimes I just get tired of playing the same game 8 times a day and will opt to sit out while 2 of my students play together instead. Oh my! They get so upset. They say if you don’t play Ms. Tawna then we don’t want to play 🙂 so I play the game again. It’s a great time to chat about school and friends and stuff too 🙂

That’s fabulous Heather! Yes, I’ve really found that those “hard to reach” students can be almost instantly “won over” when you pull out a game. I think it’s really due to the fact that you are connecting with them on another level rather than always teacher/student.

My students have loved all the games we have played, but Snip It is a real favorite for those that are working on ledger line notes. My youngest students want a Snip It game that works for the middle C note names. I used the laminated cover sheet and wrote in just the guide notes of bass F, middle C, and treble G so that they had a chance to play “Rapunzel”. Have you thought about a full game board that can be customized? Thanks for ALL your ideas!!!

I have recently begun using your fun ‘off the bench’ games since our teaching year began in February. I have never seen so many big smiles (even shy ones from the teenagers) and in the school playground my students stop to chat about scores and rematches. I feel like a sports star and my students are effortlessly learning to recognise note names and music symbols. Even Nellie No-practise students are memorising pieces and agreeing to perform at recitals. Nothing short of miraculous!